Wednesday, June 17, 2015

Consumer Reports tests face sunscreens

http://www.ksat.com/content/pns/ksat/news/2015/06/16/consumer-reports-tests-face-sunscreens.html 
SAN ANTONIO - Sunscreens will help keep you from wrinkling. Consumer Reports tested six facial sunscreens. They contain the same active ingredients as regular sunscreens, but they’re made to be lighter and less greasy, and they cost more per ounce.
Consumer Reports sensory panelists found that the facial sunscreens tested had little or no odor. Once applied to the skin, they left only a slight amount of residue and some left none at all.
Consumer Reports tested for protection against UVB and UVA rays, the kind that causes wrinkles. Two facial sunscreens are recommended:
  • The Avon Sun + Sunscreen Face Lotion with an SPF 40 for $9. 
  • Coppertone Sport High Performance Faces SPF 50 for about $10.
Consumer Reports’ tests of Coppertone Faces showed it actually averaged an SPF of 41, but it will still deliver plenty of UVB as well as UVA protection.
When you apply sunscreen, you should use at least one teaspoon for your face, ears and neck. Consumer Reports says your sun-protection regimen should also include sunglasses and a hat, plus you should try to stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when you’re more likely to get burned.

Tuesday, June 16, 2015

#Sunscreen Alternatives for Children



Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus IR3535® Gentle Breeze SPF 30 Lotion


Effectively repels mosquitoes, deer ticks, black flies, sand flies, gnats, no-seeums and biting midges. PABA-free and DEET-free. Nongreasy. With vitamin E and aloe. 4 fl. oz. 

Reviews:
I really enjoyed using this product. I went to a week-long camp and used it several times a day, sometimes as a lotion for my hands! It goes on evenly and smoothly, you need much less than you think. I did not get a bug bite for several days until I did not wear it for our literal "camp out" at night (sleeping under spider webs did not help my situation either). I did not get a sun burn either, which was important.

Avon bug guard is excellent! I've been using it for years! On one of my visits to my cousins house in New Jersey I applied it when I got there! The next day when I was taking a shower I found a dead tic hanging from my arm! I highly recommend it!

Comments about Skin So Soft Bug Guard Plus IR3535® Gentle Breeze SPF 30 Lotion:
I was AMAZED!! I heard Skin So Soft Bug Guard works but didn't believe it until I tried it. I applied this lotion before going on a walk and working in my yard. I do not have any mosquito bites. Normally, I get bites everywhere. I have tried a lot of alternative bug repellents with no success. I am so happy I will be able to enjoy the outdoors again and enjoy doing the things I love.

I am also happy that I can conveniently order this product online. I do not like having to find a representative when I want my product now. The delivery was expedient as well.

Thank you Avon!!

FDA: Don’t use spray sunscreens on children


The FDA announced last month that it’s investigating the potential risks of spray sunscreens, and until the results are in, spray sunscreens are out.
Playing catch, a good game of tag, or enjoying some cold treats from the ice cream man are all fun summer activities kids engjoy when the sun is shining bright in West Michigan neighborhoods But parents know the sun isn’t all fun and games.
“I’ve experienced a few burns,” said Thomas Bunk, a father of 4 children. “I’m going through some spot removals now and have been for awhile. So now I take it a lot more seriously and I want my kids to take it seriously, too.”
Thomas Bunk raised a family full of Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts, so spending time outside is a regular family affair. “We camp, we fish, we hike,” said Bonk.
Now, to protect his kids, Bunk goes what he calls “old school.”
“I think cost-wise I get more bang for my buck, and when I buy the lotion at least I know where its going,” he said.
Further down the street, mom of three Karen Bier-Hobbs aims to protect her kids from the sun, but she takes a different approach.
“Spray is what I use. It’s very convenient. I can reapply all the time.”
Convenient, but Dr. Randall Duthler of Metro Health recommends against using the spray sunscreen. “I think the primary concern is inhalation and injury of the lungs. I have children myself, so I’ve used spray suntan lotions.  I’m guilty of it. You know, you try to put it on the face, and it can burn the eyes, and it’s very difficult to avoid inhalation, because sometimes kids can’t coordinate holding their breath when you are trying to spray it,” he said.
The FDA is studying whether some of the ingredients the kids are swallowing are harmful. On the back of most spray suncreens you can find a warning that says keep out of reach of children and to get medical help if it is swallowed or inhaled, because it can be harmful or fatal.
“I would say there’s a risk and benefit to everythng, and you have to weigh that for you personally and your kids,” said Dr. Duthler.
So, after we told Karen about the study, she’s thinking that safety weighs more than convenience. “I want to make sure they are protected as much as possible,”  she said.
So when the sun comes out tomorrow, the kids in this neighborhood will still be outside, just with a different sun protection.
Consumer Reports is already taking some sunscreen sprays off their approved list. The publication suggests that if you choose to use spray sunscreen on a child, spray it into your hands and lather it on the child.